Israel Plans Occupation of Gaza Amid Hostage Crisis

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security Cabinet has authorized a plan to fully occupy Gaza and eradicate Hamas' tunnel network, mobilizing around 10,000 reserve troops in an effort to pressure Hamas into releasing Israeli hostages. This military escalation follows nearly 600 consecutive days of conflict since Hamas' surprise attack in October 2023 and marks a shift to a permanent war footing for Israel, raising fears of a wider regional war involving Iran and other actors. The plan has sparked significant concern and protests among hostage families, who warn that the operation threatens the lives of remaining captives and call for prioritizing their safe release over military objectives. Meanwhile, a coalition of Israeli peace organizations is convening to seek a political resolution, but critics argue their focus inadequately addresses the ongoing genocide in Gaza, highlighting divisions within Israeli society about the conflict. Geopolitical analysts warn that Israel's expanding military actions, including recent airstrikes in Yemen and threats against Iran, risk drawing in global powers and exacerbating regional instability. This intensifying conflict has led to internal social fractures in Israel, with growing dissatisfaction toward government policies and a crisis of legitimacy among political leaders amid worsening humanitarian and security conditions.